Adebayor announces return to Togo fold after 19-month absence

Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor has decided to return to the Togo national team after a 19-month absence.

The former Togo captain quit the international scene in April 2010, three months after the team bus was the subject of a gun attack which killed three people during the African Nations Cup in Angola.

The Togolese Football Federation (FTF) said in a statement: 'Emmanuel Adebayor has reiterated his willingness to be back with the national team of Togo in view of the 2013 African Nations Cup and 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

'He hopes that a new football chapter can be opened.

'He is committed to playing at the start of qualifying games for those two competitions.'

The 27-year-old, on a season-long loan at Spurs from Manchester City, has made himself available for next week's World Cup qualifier against Guinea Bissau after receiving assurances over the safety of players in future matches.

He told BBC Sport: 'I am happy to say that I am returning for Togo and will avail myself for next week's game against Guinea Bissau.

'I decided to quit the international scene because I had concerns about the safety of players after the deadly attack in Cabinda.

National hero: Adebayor played in the 2006 World Cup for Togo

'Things were not done properly. The FTF agreed with the key issues I raised and they have resolved that they will solve these problems for the benefit of all the players.

'I want to serve my country but the safety of all the players in the team must be paramount. I have been assured that this issue and others will be addressed.'

He added: 'Now that I am returning to the team it is up to the coach to decide whether he wants to play me or not.

'I am returning to the team as a member of the squad and I don't expect any special treatment. I will be treated as any other player in the team.'